Mourinho claimed he could never manage Tottenham

Jose Mourinho rejected Daniel Levy’s first approach to appoint him as Tottenham manager 12 years ago, citing that he couldn’t do it out of respect to Chelsea.

The Portuguese became the new Spurs boss on Wednesday, penning a three-and-a-half year deal as he replaced the axed Mauricio Pochettino.

The appointment marks Mourinho’s return to Premier League football 11 months after he was sacked by Manchester United , and a return to London following his two spells at Stamford Bridge, where he won three Premier League titles.

“I am excited to be joining a club with such a great heritage and such passionate supporters,” said Mourinho in a statement on Wednesday morning.